Fred Rosebrock Haver

After a full and happy life Fred Haver passed away at the age of 76 at his home on June 10, 2026. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on April 22, 1950. Fred was the beloved son of Hilda and Frederick ‘Fritz’ Haver. The families of both of Fred’s parents came from the town of Wehdem, Germany. Fred was very proud of his German heritage.

Fred was a lifelong Indianapolis resident growing up on the Eastside of Indianapolis on English Avenue. As a child he attended IPS Christian Park School #82. He, his brother David Haver and sister Marcella (Bonnie) Pickard all attended Thomas Carr Howe High School. Fred was very active in high school, graduating in 1968. He was on the Howe Tower paper staff, was in the choir and boy’s octet, played piano for the school musicals and was a member of the National Honor Society. Over the decades Fred kept in touch with many high school friends, actively participating with class reunions, Howe block parties and many Irvington activities.

Fred earned a Master of Science degree in Mathematics from Indiana State University. He also received a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from Indiana University, Bloomington. He furthered his education with a certificate in Applied Computer Science from IUPUI-Indianapolis. He held various positions in his long IT, web design and development career, including Grain Dealers Insurance, Farm Bureau Insurance and IUPUI.

Fred was an active member of the Indy Contra Dance community as a dancer and musician. He participated in weekly dances in Indianapolis and around the Midwest. He often traveled, including abroad, to attend special dances and enjoy special musicians. He had many friends across the country who are dancers and musicians, and it was an important community to him.

Fred endeared himself to all who met him. He was a kind and sweet soul who never had a bad word to say about anyone.

He loved people, music, dancing and festivals. The man was always on the go. “Where is Fred?” Was a common question among his family. He was quite an adventurer. He avidly participated in almost all the week-long desert Burning Man events since the 1990’s., countless Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans and Kentucky Derby Races in Louisville. He knew and went to every local and regional festival and concert that he could. Fred loved exploring and his travels included many cruises, most of the United States, Ireland, Germany (to visit family), New Zealand and Iceland (twice). He cherished and prioritized time with his family and was often the sponsor of bringing new games to family gatherings.

Fred was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and in dramatic fashion had to be airlifted from northern Indiana to IU Health Indianapolis in March of 2025 upon onset of his first major symptoms. With no complaints he endured surgery, multiple other invasive procedures and two rounds of chemotherapy during his phases of treatment. He outlived expectations which we credit to his strong will and positivity. The family would like to thank the many IU Health healthcare professionals who cared for Fred in a loving compassionate way during his time in their care.

In addition to his parents, Hilda and Fritz, Fred is preceded in death by his sister Bonnie Pickard (2022), brother David Haver (2020) and nephew Dan Pickard (2005).

Survivors include his nephews Brian (Carol) Pickard, Michael (Teresa) Pickard and Jason Haver, nieces Suzanne Pickard, Deborah (William) Thompson and Jesica Lynn Lillie. He also leaves great-nieces and great-nephews Catherine (Mitchell) Golden, Annamarie Culp, Daniel Thompson and many cousins including Kathy (Haver) Sutton.

Visitation and a celebration of Fred will be held on Monday, June 22 from 11:00-1:00 with a service following at 1:00-2:00. These will be held at Legacy Funeral Home 5215 N. Shadeland Avenue, Indianapolis with Pastor Marc Hayden of Friedens Church presiding over the service.

In lieu of flowers the family requests prayers for those affected by pancreatic cancer and their caregivers. Donations to Indy Contra Dance would continue Fred’s love for this community and music. Via [email protected]

Fred was a loving son, brother and uncle as well as a steadfast friend to many. His fun-loving ways, wonderful, gentle spirit and loyal friendships have inspired many and will be deeply missed. He was the quintessential example of living life to the fullest to the very end.